Why should anyone care about another person's story? If it is told well, and honestly, one might find oneself there, perhaps even find God. And that is a blessing indeed, if it brings a measure of truth and healing or inspiration and challenge.

To this, I've been reading our Thanksgiving Celebration stories, where I've found myself, found God, been moved, blessed. I've also tried to make space for others in my heart and mind, which seems to me a form of hospitality— listening to stories where I don't find myself but I find Other and God-near-Other...

Popped over to read your CT article--lots of historical depth and a reminder of the Jewish celebrations. I actually think of that every year, how Americans don't really know how to "feast" very well. In fact, this (Thanksgiving) is our (Americans') only real "feast," and there are no set suggestions on how to celebrate it. Even the food is specific to that family's traditions (my Grandma's pea salad being one example).

Your CT article is wonderful! You bless us with your words and generosity. I am thinking about the feast days a lot lately, we do Passover every year but looking at the fulfillment through Jesus of all these ancient traditions is such a blessing!

LL - I keep meaning to tell you that I had a dream that I had Thanksgiving dinner at your house (which I've never seen in real life!). Only you weren't actually home when it started -- you and your family (they were all there in the dream, though I've never actually met them or seen a picture of them!) came a little later and feasted with us. I was so glad to have this little connection with you over the holidays! Blessings!

I like that -- listening as a form of hospitality. Giving someone our time is one of the greatest gifts. It has been pure joy to spend time here at Seedlings in Stone, and at Love Notes to Yahweh. I've been blessed by your words.

You asked about the photo on my blog. Alas, there is no story behind it. I picked the mug because the word Grace went with your book's title, and the lace placemat is just one that we've had since we married.